- The tax bills are currently before the National Assembly and have generated controversies, particularly among northern leaders, including those in the president’s party.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to the tax reform initiative, stating it is a permanent fixture of his administration.
This declaration was made on Monday night during a presidential media chat broadcast on NTA.
The proposed tax reform bills, currently under review by the National Assembly, have sparked intense debate and opposition, particularly from Northern leaders.
This backlash prompted lawmakers to initiate consultations to address concerns surrounding the bills.
Tinubu acknowledged that the reforms may not garner universal support, but emphasized their permanence.
He stated, “The tax reform is here to stay. The reform is pro-poor and it is to widen the tax net, so we can have more people paying.
“The hallmark of a good leader is the ability to do what you have to do at the time it ought to be done.”
When asked about potential concessions to alleviate concerns, specifically regarding the VAT component, Tinubu replied that tax amendments inherently involve negotiations and concessions, indicating his willingness to engage in such discussions.